Longtime Texas Rangers president Jon Daniels out in latest shakeup
ARLINGTON, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) — Just two days after firing manager Chris Woodward, the Rangers announced another big shakeup Wednesday with the firing of the team's president Jon Daniels.
Daniels, who has been relieved of his duties and whose contract will not be renewed, had been involved with the Rangers for over 17 years. He joined the operations department in 2002 and was promoted to general manager in 2005. He became President of Baseball Operations in 2013.
During his tenure, the franchise made five playoff appearances and won two American League pennants in 2010 and 2011.
However, since 2016, the team has struggled. Rangers majority owner Ray Davis said in a statement that "the bottom line is we have not had a winning record since 2016 and for much of that time, have not been competitive in the A.L. West Division."
Davis said he was hopeful "a change in the leadership of the baseball operations department will be beneficial going forward."
The team said that Daniels' departure is effective immediately and that Executive Vice President & General Manager Chris Young will assume his duties.
"I want to thank Jon for being a great partner for this ownership group over the last 12 years, and I wish him and his family the best for the future," said Davis.
Daniels said in a statement:
Somewhere along the way, this baseball fan from Queens got an opportunity to help lead a Major League Baseball franchise in Texas. It's been an unbelievable experience. My family and I are incredibly thankful to so many people along the way.
To John Hart and Tom Hicks, who gave an eager kid one opportunity after another, and for believing in me when the reasons to do so weren't always clear.
To Ray Davis and the Rangers ownership group, for providing us with a steady hand in challenging times, and the resources and support needed to build.
To all of the Rangers fans out there. For your passion and support. Thank you for welcoming us into your community. There are some spectacularly talented and driven people in the organization, from CY throughout the operation. There are going to be amazing moments in the summers and falls again soon, and you will get the parade you deserve.
To every player, coach, scout, trainer, and staff member I've had the privilege to work with. You are the reason I loved every minute of this job. The shared experiences, good and bad, are the things I cherish most. Excited to watch what you build from here.
To the media, for treating us fairly and with respect, and for improving the game by bringing our fans in closer. Many of you have become friends. You never made it personal and I'm grateful for that. I hope you feel we were straight with you.
Looking forward to being a dad, husband, and fan. And to see what comes next.
Forever grateful.
JD